Ambassador Schermers Highlights Strong Water and Agriculture Partnership Between Netherlands and Kazakhstan
Netherlands and Kazakhstan Deepen Partnership in Water Management and Agriculture
ASTANA — The Netherlands and Kazakhstan are strengthening their partnership by leveraging Dutch expertise in water management and agriculture to tackle critical issues in Central Asia. In a recent interview with The Astana Times, Ambassador Nicolaas Schermers of the Netherlands emphasized the strategic cooperation between the two countries, highlighting their shared commitment to addressing pressing challenges and exploring new growth opportunities.
Economic reforms: enhancing the investment climate
Kazakhstan has recently implemented economic reforms to improve its investment climate, attracting significant international interest. Under the leadership of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, these reforms have enhanced the investment environment, leading to record investment inflows despite global economic uncertainties. The Netherlands, as the largest foreign investor in Kazakhstan, with investments reaching $4.4 billion last year, has benefited from these improved conditions. Ambassador Schermers noted the importance of transparency and progress in legal frameworks and anti-corruption efforts in attracting Dutch investments.
Challenges and prospects
While Kazakhstan’s performance in economic reforms is commendable, challenges remain in the geopolitical landscape. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine and Kazakhstan’s proximity to Russia present challenges for potential investors. Ambassador Schermers highlighted the importance of maintaining strong relationships for effective sanction management and preventing the circumvention of sanctions through Kazakhstan’s territory.
Cooperation in water management and agriculture
Agriculture is a key focus of the partnership between the Netherlands and Kazakhstan. A dedicated agricultural committee was established to enhance collaboration in this critical sector, focusing on exploring investment opportunities and knowledge exchange. The Netherlands, known for its agricultural expertise, is providing valuable insights into maximizing agricultural potential in Kazakhstan. The partnership also addresses trade barriers and regulatory challenges, advocating for Kazakhstan’s accession to international agreements like the UPOV to enhance crop yields.
Water management is another key area of cooperation, with the Netherlands sharing its expertise to address Kazakhstan’s water management challenges. Dutch experts will collaborate with Kazakh counterparts to implement advanced water management systems in areas like Atyrau, addressing climate change-induced water fluctuations.
Building bridges: technology, education, and people-to-people connections
Ambassador Schermers emphasized the importance of knowledge exchange, educational initiatives, and fostering people-to-people connections to strengthen bilateral ties. The Netherlands supports initiatives like the Bolashak program and university partnerships to provide educational opportunities to Kazakh professionals. Training programs for diplomats and professionals further enhance mutual understanding and long-term relationships.
The visit of Prime Minister Mark Rutte: cementing strategic partnerships
Prime Minister Mark Rutte’s recent visit to Kazakhstan underscored the significance of the Netherlands-Kazakhstan relationship. The visit focused on political and economic cooperation, highlighting Kazakhstan’s role as a middle power in the geopolitical context. The opening of Amsterdam Square in Astana symbolized the growing cultural and economic connections between the two countries, reinforcing their strong partnership.
Overall, the Netherlands and Kazakhstan’s cooperation in water management, agriculture, and other areas exemplifies their commitment to addressing common challenges and creating sustainable development opportunities. By sharing expertise and collaborating on various initiatives, the two countries are paving the way for a stronger and more prosperous partnership in the future.
